2018 Toyota 4Runner Prices: MSRP vs Dealer Invoice vs True Dealer Cost w/ Holdback

On the inside, the 2018 Toyota 4Runner is chic, comfortable, and makes for a relaxed daily driver. On the outside, the 4Runner is every inch an SUV, capable of serving as an exciting off-roader. This SUV gets an impressive amount of ground clearance and features a suspension system that, due to its specially-crafted stabilizer bars, automatically adjusts for better traction and travel of the wheels while off-roading. In fact, it is with off-roading that is really where the 4Runner's greatest strengths lie.

What's New For 2018?

For the most part, the 2018 Toyota 4Runner is unchanged from the previous year's model. The only noticeable differences are a few changes with regard to the optional packages.

Available Styles

The 2018 Toyota 4Runner is available as a midsized SUV. It comes standard as a two-row vehicle but has an optional third-row of seating available.

Available Trims

The 4Runner has six different trim levels to choose from. They are all powered by the same standard 4.0-L V6 engine, which is able to generate 270 hp and 278 lb-ft of torque. A 5-speed automatic transmission comes standard, and the 4Runner is fitted with a 5,000-lb tow rating. All but the Limited and SR5 come as five-seaters with four-wheel drive being standard. The base trim is known as the SR5, and it features satellite radio, a 6.1-inch LCD touchscreen display, keyless entry, and a rearview camera. The next level up is the TRD Off-Road, which adds slightly wider wheels, crawl control, and the optional Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) for enhanced off-roading abilities. The SR5 Premium and TRD Off-Road Premium both boast simulated leather upholstery, heated mirrors, and front seats that are heated. The TRD Pro trim features virtually everything you can find on the TRD Off-Road Premium and adds tweaked front springs, a skid plate up front, and all-terrain tires. Finally, the line-topping luxurious Limited trim features the X-REAS suspension system (which reduces body roll), whopping 20-inch tires, and a 15-speaker sound system.

Driving Impressions

The 2018 Toyota 4Runner is, by nature, an impressive off-roader. The vehicle gets up to speed in a decent time, going from 0 to 60 mph in roughly 8 seconds. Braking feels pretty secure, but there is some noticeable nosedive, and the 4Runner makes panic stops in distances slightly longer than average for its class. The 4Runner has steering that is predictable and can handle tough corners pretty well. However, it can be a little bit taxing when you're on the straight-and-narrow, as you will need to keep making adjustments. The 4Runner lacks the low center of gravity required to keep it centered during sharp turns, but KDSS adds a lot of stability and decreases body roll when opted for. Rear locking differential, crawl control, and the optional KDSS system help to make the 4Runner optimal as an off-roader. In fact, you will be hard-pressed to find another midsized SUV that off-roads as well as the 4Runner.

Fuel Economy

Unfortunately, fuel economy is not the 4Runner's strong point, so if that is important to you, you might want to consider a different Toyota model. At its best, the rear-wheel drive versions get a combined 18 mpg (17 city/21 highway). The four-wheel drive versions get roughly the same, with only 1 mpg less on the highway.

The 2018 Toyota 4Runner harkens back to a bygone era of SUVs, and its less-than-impressive fuel economy is reminiscent of that. However, the 4Runner is the top dog in its class when it comes to off-roading, which it seems to be precisely crafted for.

How to Calculate The Dealer Cost of a Toyota 4Runner

Formula for Calculating Dealer Cost:

• Example: Base Toyota 4Runner invoice price + the dealer Invoice price of all the options + destination - Holdback = Total Dealer Cost.
• What is Holdback? A hidden amount that manufacturers give back to a dealer. It is a percentage of the MSRP or the Invoice price.

Total Dealer Cost - Rebate and Incentive + Taxes / Licensing Fees = True Dealer Cost. (You can get rebates and incentives here)

Note: All Toyota 4Runner MSRP, invoice and dealer cost dollar figures above are approximate amounts. Prices are subject to change without notice.

A note about rebates: Most rebates are subtracted from the "on the road" figure. In most cases, you can have the rebate if you are arranging your own financing or you are paying cash. If you decide to use the manufacturer’s low interest financing, you do not usually get the rebate. Ask your dealer for details.